What does a life spent between prison gyms and Premier League football clubs really look like? In this powerful conclusion to our 3-part conversation, Len Clark reflects on his 37 years as an HMP P.E. Officer and his incredible journey into professional football with Newcastle United and the Republic of Ireland.From treating notorious prisoners to working alongside legends like Kevin Keegan, Ruud Gullit and Sir Bobby Robson, Len shares the highs, the lows, and the lessons he’s carried across two very different worlds.👉 If you’ve ever wondered what connects prisons, football, and human resilience, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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In this episode of Hope in Hell, retired prison officer Len Clark reveals why good leadership can be more effective than any prison inspection. We discuss:✅ How the loss of the “Prison Chief” role affected accountability✅ Why leadership is key to maintaining prison education standards✅ The problems with Ofsted and HMIP inspections inside prisons✅ Real stories from decades on the frontline of the UK prison system🎧 Hosted by Gary (former prisoner) and Tom (former prison officer), Hope in Hell shares powerful stories from both sides of the fence.📌 Watch the previous part here: https://youtu.be/t6zhdFwT5x0A Curious Matter Productionhttps://curiousmatter.co.uk#HopeInHell #PrisonStories #Ofsted #PrisonEducation #JusticeSystem

In this first part of a three-part conversation between Len, Gary & Tom, Len shares the realities of his 37 years as an HMP Physical Education Officer. From the prison gym to the exercise yard, he reflects on the challenges, the moments of hope, and the power of respect and discipline in the most demanding of environments. Len’s insights reveal a side of prison life few ever witness — where sport becomes more than exercise, trust is earned, and change is possible. His stories offer a compelling look at rehabilitation, resilience, and the human spirit behind the prison walls.Part two and three will follow — each delving deeper into Len’s unique experiences and the lessons he’s carried from a lifetime in service.A Curious Matter Productionhttps://curiousmatter.co.uk

Shawn’s Story of Survival, Second Chances, and Saving Lives.

In this deeply moving episode of Hope in Hell, we speak with Shawn, a man who spent over 20 years in active heroin addiction and 15 years in and out of prison. Shawn shares an unflinching account of his early trauma, the spiral into crime, and how his darkest moment - an overdose that left him on life support - became the turning point that saved his life.

With honesty and humility, Shawn reflects on the impact of his addiction on his family, his time in recovery, and the extraordinary journey that has led him to saving lives through harm reduction work and Naloxone training. Later in the episode, we meet Connor, whose work in the community helps create safe spaces for people in recovery and reconnects them with hope.

This episode is a raw and real insight into the human cost of addiction - and the transformative power of connection, compassion, and second chances.

If you have been affected by any of the issues covered in this episode there are organisations that can provide support such as Recovery Connections in the North East of England.

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Disclaimer

The following podcast, produced by Curious Matter Productions, features discussions, debates, and interviews with various hosts and guests. While we strive to provide informative and engaging content, opinions expressed on this show are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Curious Matter Productions, its staff, or affiliates. The thoughts, beliefs, and opinions shared by our hosts and guests are their own and should not be taken as representative of any particular group, organisation, or entity. We encourage respectful dialogue and lively debate, but we also want to acknowledge that not everyone will agree with the perspectives presented on this show. By listening to this podcast, you understand that you may encounter differing viewpoints and opinions, which are intended to spark critical thinking, inspire new ideas, and foster meaningful discussions. We believe that exploring a range of opinions is essential for personal growth, cultural enrichment, and community building. If you have questions, comments, or concerns about our show, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@curiousmatter.co.uk. Your thoughts help shape the direction of our podcast and inform future episodes.Thank you for tuning in to Curious Matter Productions’ podcast!

Join us for an incredibly special and moving episode of the Hope in Hell Podcast as we sit down with a true British icon, Michael Watson MBE.

Known as "The People's Champion", Michael shares his extraordinary journey – from his formidable boxing career, including legendary fights against Nigel Benn and Mike McCallum, to the life-altering injury sustained in his bout with Chris Eubank.

Listen as Michael talks candidly about:

• His early days and getting into boxing.
• The highs and lows of his professional career.
• The fight that changed everything and his miraculous recovery.
• The immense power of faith and positivity that carried him through.
• His inspirational completion of the London Marathon.
• Receiving his MBE from the Queen.
• His incredible charity work, including his involvement with The Dream Factory.

His enduring message of hope, resilience, and love.

This is more than just a boxing story; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Michael Watson's journey is one of unparalleled courage, determination, and inspiration that has touched millions. Prepare to be moved and inspired.

#MichaelWatson #Boxing #PeoplesChampion #Inspiration #ChrisEubank #NigelBenn #PeterHamlyn #HopeInHellPodcast #Hope #Resilience #MBE #BoxingLegend #UKBoxing #Motivation #Recovery #Faith #LondonMarathon #dreamfactory

Employment, Accommodation and Support

In this compelling episode of Hope in Hell, we delve into the challenges of imprisonment and the crucial steps needed for successful reintegration into society. Our hosts examine the three key pillars that reduce the likelihood of re-offending: stable employment, secure accommodation, and a robust support network. The discussion highlights the system’s failings, such as the lack of support for those released from prison and the dire consequences of having no safe place to call home. We also explore the transformative power of therapeutic programmes within the prison environment and the importance of nurturing inner strength and community contribution.

You will hear personal stories and insights from Gary, Tom and Shelly - who have dedicated themselves to offering support, sharing knowledge, and shining a light in even the darkest places. This episode also touches on inspiring initiatives—from supported housing projects to community gyms—that offer hope and a second chance to those seeking to rebuild their lives. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that challenges conventional thinking about rehabilitation, kindness, and the true meaning of freedom.If you find this discussion as inspiring as we do, please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below.

A Curious Matter Production https://curiousmatter.co.uk

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A Story of Second Chances and Three Miracles.

In this episode, Gary, Tom and Shelly explore life-altering moments that redefine what truly matters. Tom recounts his near-death experience—a series of remarkable coincidences, including a dire chest infection, a timely tip from his colleague Stevie Robertson, and a 14-minute resuscitation that left him gasping for air. This profound event led him to reassess his priorities, placing family and personal life above work and routine, while also meeting Gary, whose own journey from prison to rehabilitation has been nothing short of transformative.Gary and Tom delve into the shortcomings of conventional prison sentences, arguing that true rehabilitation occurs only when one is ready to change. Their discussion highlights the benefits of community service over short prison terms, and how positive interventions can provide the support ex-offenders need to rebuild their lives. From delivering life-changing programmes in prisons, including work with young gang members to navigating scepticism from peers, their conversation is both inspiring and thought-provoking.

Join us as we examine the power of second chances, the importance of timely interventions, and the strength found in unlikely alliances. If you believe in the potential for change and the importance of real human connection, this episode is a must-watch.

Join us for a powerful conversation with Shelly as she reflects on how prison became the turning point that saved her life. From confronting buried emotions to reshaping her responses to life’s challenges, she shares an honest account of self-discovery behind bars. Shelly discusses the intense therapy she underwent in the Primrose Programme, a specialised unit for severe personality disorders, and how schema therapy helped her understand the roots of her struggles. She also reveals the stark realities of prison life, from the relentless noise to the emotional toll of group therapy and the courage it took to speak out. This episode is a moving exploration of resilience, rehabilitation, and the unexpected ways prison can change a life forever. Hosts - Tom Batty & Gary Crooks A Curious Matter Production https://curiousmatter.co.uk